I've been using apm and now pixhawk for some time in both fixed wing and copters. My latest build is an arduboat using a modified off the shelf rc boat with an intelliducer for lake surveying. I'm now planning my next build. I will be operating the craft in remote areas (several days drive to any gas or electricity) for up to 2 weeks at a time. That got me thinking of possible using a gas engine on the boat to eliminate the need for a generator. Having a gas motor would reduce the support equipment needed for these long duration survey projects.
I've never used liquid fuel engine with the apm or pixhawk and i'm sure i'd need to dampen vibrations and such, but what other considerations are there? I'm looking for a minimum 6hr endurance for the boat between recharges/refueling. Has anyone measured the fuel consumption of the rc gas motors? Just wondering what the community thoughts are on the best approach.
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Thomas,
Thank you for the reply, I've been following your projects with great interest. The hull will be of my own design in a trimaran configuration. The final size largely depends on the space needed for fuel, be it of the liquid or electron type. That is an interesting motor, I had no idea that the rc motors have come so far. I've been all electric in my hobby for almost a decade now. Perhaps a smaller motor with a reduction drive would get the final rpm needed and be fuel efficient.
A big reason to stick with electric is the simplicity, fewer links in the chain than a gas system. being able to field repair/replace components is a core design goal. More research is needed to make an informed decision.